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World's Best Basil Pesto Recipe: Fresh, Organic & Flavorful

This authentic Italian basil pesto recipe creates a vibrant, fresh sauce using high-quality ingredients like basil, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Perfect for pasta, sandwiches, and appetizers, it captures the true flavor of Ligurian-style pesto with customizable options for different preferences.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 285
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
  • 1/2 cup high-quality extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/3 cup pine nuts
  • 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup Pecorino Romano cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
  • Salt to taste (start with 1/2 teaspoon)
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (to preserve color)

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Wash and thoroughly dry the basil leaves. Toast the pine nuts lightly in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and golden. Let them cool completely.
  2. Combine Base Ingredients: In a food processor, combine the basil leaves, toasted pine nuts, and minced garlic. Pulse several times until the ingredients are roughly chopped.
  3. Add Cheese and Seasonings: Add the grated Parmesan, Pecorino (if using), salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Pulse a few more times to incorporate.
  4. Stream in Olive Oil: With the food processor running on low, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the pesto reaches your desired consistency.
  5. Taste and Adjust: Taste your pesto and adjust seasonings as needed. You may want more salt, a squeeze of lemon, or additional olive oil.

Notes

Use fresh basil and toast nuts for best flavor. Work quickly to prevent oxidation. Freeze pesto with plastic wrap pressed directly on surface to preserve color and freshness. Customize with different nuts like walnuts or almonds.